South Carolina’s Nuclear Comeback

South Carolina’s long-stalled V.C. Summer nuclear project is getting renewed attention—and potentially, a second chance.

In January 2025, state-owned utility Santee Cooper issued a request for proposals to revive construction on the unfinished V.C. Summer Units 2 and 3. These Westinghouse AP1000 reactors, roughly 50% complete when work stopped in 2017, are being eyed as a solution to meet surging electricity demand from AI data centers, advanced manufacturing, and corporate carbon-reduction goals.

Interest from industry has been strong. By May, Santee Cooper reported “robust” responses from utilities, developers, and tech firms, underscoring the unique opportunity the site presents. With major infrastructure and long-lead components already in place, the V.C. Summer site could deliver 2,200 MW of clean, baseload nuclear power faster than any comparable U.S. project.

The timing aligns with growing national momentum for nuclear power. Following the successful completion of Georgia’s Vogtle Units 3 and 4, and amid federal support and rising tech-sector energy needs, South Carolina is eyeing a comeback as the leader in clean energy innovation.